"Epilogue: October of 1874" Summary

Ruby marries the Georgia boy and they raise three sons at Black Cove. They hold a last picnic before cold weather sets in, ending Ada's favorite season poignantly and metaphorically. Ruby's 9-year-old daughter helps her carry out food. Stobrod brings milk from the barn. At twilight, he plays until the children are exhausted, and then he puts aside the devil's box to sing a new hymn, "Angel Band." Ada is missing a fingertip since an accident marking the winter solstice. They lock themselves in the house to sleep in preparation for another busy day.

"Epilogue: October of 1874" Analysis

Inman has, indeed, died, but Ada is pregnant (like Sara) and bears a daughter. The Georgia boy does not return home, and Ruby marries him and keeps him and their sons in line. Stobrod, too, is part of the...